State to close Black Lake launch site to install new boat ramps, upgrades

The public water-access site on Black Lake in Thurston County will be closed Sept. 14 through Oct. 1 while work crews remove the aging boat launch and replace it with two new concrete ramps.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, which owns and maintains the public access site on the southeast corner of the lake, also plans to construct a boarding float, resurface the blacktop, and add parking spaces. A new restroom facility was installed earlier this year.

Brian Mitchell, the agency’s access area manager, said closing the ramp is necessary to keep people safe during construction.

“We’re going to do everything we can to complete this project on schedule,” Mitchell said. “Black Lake is a big draw for fishing and other water sports, and we want to have our new facilities up and running as soon as possible.”

Two private boat launches — Salmon Shores Resort and Columbus Park — are available on the lake.

The project is funded by a $490,000 grant through the Boating Facility Program within the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office.

This story was originally published September 6, 2015 at 8:02 AM with the headline "State to close Black Lake launch site to install new boat ramps, upgrades."